Topical Encyclopedia The term "North Country" in the Bible often refers to regions located to the north of Israel, which played significant roles in the historical and prophetic narratives of the Scriptures. This term is primarily associated with the lands from which invasions and judgments upon Israel were prophesied to come, as well as regions involved in the restoration and redemption of God's people.Biblical References: 1. Jeremiah's Prophecies: The prophet Jeremiah frequently mentions the "North Country" in the context of impending judgment and exile. In Jeremiah 1:14 , the Lord declares, "Out of the north disaster will be poured out on all who live in the land." This prophecy is understood to refer to the Babylonian Empire, which lay to the north of Israel and was the instrument of God's judgment against Judah for their idolatry and disobedience. Further, in Jeremiah 3:18 , the prophet speaks of a future restoration: "In those days the house of Judah will join the house of Israel, and together they will come from a land of the north to the land I gave your fathers as an inheritance." This indicates a return from exile, symbolizing hope and redemption for the people of Israel. 2. Zechariah's Vision: The prophet Zechariah also references the "North Country" in his visions. In Zechariah 6:6-8 , the prophet describes four chariots, with the black horses going toward the north country. This vision is often interpreted as God's sovereign control over the nations and His judgment upon them, with the north country representing the regions of Babylon and Assyria. 3. Symbolic Meaning: The "North Country" is symbolically significant in the biblical narrative. It represents both the source of divine judgment and the place from which God will gather His people. The north is often associated with darkness and danger, yet it is also the direction from which deliverance and restoration will come, as seen in the prophetic promises of return from exile. Historical Context: The historical context of the "North Country" involves the geopolitical realities of ancient Near Eastern empires. The Assyrian and Babylonian empires, both located to the north of Israel, were dominant powers that exerted influence and control over the region. Their invasions and subsequent exiles of the Israelites were pivotal events in the biblical history of God's covenant people. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the "North Country" serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over the nations and His use of them to accomplish His purposes. It underscores the themes of judgment and redemption, illustrating the consequences of disobedience and the hope of restoration. The prophetic messages concerning the north country highlight God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, even amidst the trials and tribulations faced by His people. In summary, the "North Country" in the Bible is a multifaceted term that encompasses historical, prophetic, and theological dimensions. It is a testament to God's justice and mercy, His control over history, and His unwavering commitment to the redemption of His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia North CountryNORTH; NORTH COUNTRY north, (tsaphon, from tsaphan, "to hide," i.e. "the hidden," "the dark" (Gesenius); borrhas, boreas (Judith 16:4); septentrio (2 Esdras 15:43)): In addition to the many places where "north" occurs merely as a point of the compass, there are several passages in Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Zephaniah, where it refers to a particular country, usually Assyria or Babylonia: Jeremiah 3:18, "They shall come together out of the land of the north to the land that I gave for an inheritance unto your fathers"; Jeremiah 46:6, "In the north by the river Euphrates have they stumbled and fallen"; Ezekiel 26:7, "I will bring upon Tyre Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, king of kings, from the north"; Zechariah 2:13, "He will stretch out his hand against the north, and destroy Assyria, and will make Nineveh a desolation." Greek 5403. Phoinike -- Phoenicia, a region North of Galilee ... Phoenicia, a region North of Galilee. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration ... From phoinix; palm-country; Phoenice (or Phoenicia), a region of Palestine ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5403.htm - 6k 3465. Musia -- Mysia, a province of Asia Minor Library A Sermon Made by M. Hugh Latimer, at the Time of the Insurrection ... The Battle of Carchemish When one at the Back of the North Wind Wanted to Know How Things ... The Captivity. The Nations of the North-East Visit to Cities in the North-West and to Kumaon --Visit to England ... Zechariah Six Years in North Bengal --Missionary and Indigo Planter The Restoration of Israel is Only Made Possible by the Second ... 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